Both of my sons took/take Valproic Acid (Depakene/Depakote) in combination with Dilantin and Phenobarbitol. My youngest son's seizures were intractable, and no drug helped him. My oldest son is fairly well controlled on the combination. However, he suffers from Chronic Anemia, another serious side effect of Valproic Acid.

I have read more accounts of people having to stop taking Valproic Acid due to adverse side effects than I have of people using it long term, like my sons.

Every drug has side effects, but as long as Big Pharma can make billions, articles praising their effectiveness will be written.

Love & Light,

Rose

Mom to Jon, 48, (seizure disorder; Gtube; trache; colostomy; osteoporosis; hypothyroid; enlarged prostate; lymphedema, assorted mysteries) and Michael, 32, (intractable seizures; Gtube), who were born with an undiagnosed progressive neuromuscular disease and courageous spirits. Our Angel Michael received his wings in 2003 and now resides in Heaven. Our Angel Jon lives at home with me and Jim, the world's most wonderful dad.

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